Clemson Behavioral Science Experience

About CBSE

The Clemson Behavioral Science Experience (CBSE) is a living-learning community for entering freshmen who are majoring in sociology, psychology and political science.

The program is designed to enhance students’ overall first year as they make the transition from high school into college. CBSE students participate in educational and extracurricular activities applicable to their educational and career goals while forming friendships and bonds that last throughout their college years.

Mentorship and extra time and attention are given to participants to ensure a successful first-year experience at Clemson University. Students live together in Benet Hall, along with a peer adviser and other residential assistants. Advisers are available in the residence hall on a weekly basis to assist the students with their academic needs.

Goals

The CBSE living-learning community strives to:

• Provide a healthy, safe and attractive living environment
• Engage students in campus services
• Provide a holistic approach to learning and community
• Create a greater awareness of diversity and international opportunities
• Develop mentor relationships between upperclassmen (i.e., leadership committee) and their younger peers, as well as between faculty and students
• Provide the tools necessary to harbor greater academic success (i.e., higher GPR and retention)

Learning Outcomes

CBSE students who engage in the living-learning community will be able to:

• Identify four resources on campus that can assist them in achieving their academic and professional goals:
  • Major Faculty
  • Academic Adviser
  • Michelin Career Center
  • Academic Success Center
• Identify the five elements and functions of the CBSE program:
  • community and civic engagement
  • academic achievement
  • leadership and career development
  • interpersonal perspective
  • global awareness and diversity
• Demonstrate responsibility, productivity and proficiency with a flair for success in their chosen field
• Expound on their strengths and develop the ability to harness the skills that may lead to future careers and endeavors

Testimonials

“Last year I lived in Benet Hall and loved it! It was very helpful to have a roommate and neighbors who were experiencing the same things that I was at the very same time! We went to classes together, created study groups and formed amazing friendships. This opportunity was a marvelous introduction to Clemson. The beginning of freshman year is a very frightening time, and living in the community made classes enjoyable and finding friends easy. It was a great decision to live in Benet, and I've made connections with people that will last forever.”
~Alex Rinz 

“CBSE was really a defining experience for me at Clemson. As a freshman, breaking into the University academically and socially, can be difficult. CBSE provided opportunities for me to get connected in both areas. Through CBSE, I met some of my best friends and was also introduced to professors who I now work for. Looking back on things, I can attribute much of my success at Clemson back to the networks I made in CBSE.” 
~Rebecca Fulmer

“Joining the Clemson Behavioral Science Experience was a great decision. I immediately bonded with the guys on my hall, and I'm even still living with my roommate from last year. I would definitely recommend it.”
~Wes Watt

“I really enjoyed living with other people from my major. It was very beneficial when it came to studying for exams. The people on my hall are now some of my best friends, all thanks to CBSE.”
~Amanda Rollo

“Coming to Clemson, I didn’t know anyone so the CBSE program was a great way for me to dive into social activities and meet a lot of people with interests similar to mine. I’ve gained unique skills and information from the workshops, had fun participating in the CBSE social activities and made a lot of great friends.
~Kristen Jennings